My Weekly ReCRAP!

So things have been more than hectic around here. I even posted my weekly recap on MONDAY! To make a long story short.

I need a red bull.

Alright. Now for the recrap.

This week Noe and I have been reading City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. Review to come shortly over at I Adore Books and Film.

I did however prescreen Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole and see Wallstreet: Money Never Sleeps. For my film review, click Legend of the Guardians and WallStreet: Money Never Sleeps. You can also check out my weekly reviews for Inside Out Hawaii Magazine by clicking Screenshots.

Next, I submitted my contest entry to Boutique du Vampyre’s 6th Annual Vampire Genre short story contest. If you would like to read my first ever vampire story, click A Drink For Your Thoughts.

Chapter 3 is coming soon of Le Moulin Rouge: Here's a teaser.

I made this little trailer for Cinderella; A Tale of Lust



And the reason for my random efforts all over the place... I'm off to Forks this Wednesday evening to meet up with a 100 or so twitards, and I'm a hot mess these days. When I return, I promise a recap of the havoc. FOOOORRKKKSS!!

Last, TJ was kind enough to point this video out and I heart it. True Mudd: A Sesame Street Parody.

Season Finale of True Blood Season 3

Well, well, well. Another season under our belt and honestly, where as the time flown. Three Seasons! Amazing.

I have to say, unlike other people who felt the finale was anti-climatic, I freaking loved it.

For me the entire season seemed packed with too many sub-stories and so many things going on that at times, it was a bit much to digest. But the last two episodes seemed to slow its pace and prepare the fans with what can only be an exciting Season 4.

The reason why I loved the finale:

1) Eric was spared the true death and Russell looked like a character in Beetlejuice but even scorched, he made me laugh. Plus, Eric again drinks from Sookie (love that blood connection).

2) I adored Sookie's attitude towards Bill and Eric (rightfully so). But what she did to Russell. BRILLIANT! That evil laugh as she poured Talbot's remains down the disposal. OMG, one of the best scenes EVA! 

3) I wasn't fond of Tara's bitch attitude towards Sam, after he reveals to her that he is a shapeshifter, but I found that somewhere in that annoying heart of hers, she grew. The symbolic "cutting of her hair" can only give me hope for a more mature Tara in Season 4. (Can we lose Tara's mom, though? Damn. That woman is even more annoying than Tara.)

4) Now Hoyt laying into Summer and his mother after their failed attempt at intervention was okay, but the scene where he is showing Jessica their new home-priceless. What is up with the creepy naked doll? And Hoyt's mom looking at vampire-killer rifles?

5) Jason stepping up to take care of the small town of shitshot. I don't know. I felt kinda proud of him. He seemed to finally lose that  I'm-stupid-but-ripped attitude and I'm curious where they will take Jason with this unusual plot line. Btw, is Calvin dead? WTF!!

6) Jesus being a witch. Yes. That is all I have to say. I knew it from the beginning the kid was not right, and I think we will see Jesus's true colors next season. But what is going on with Lafayette?

7) Arlene is just a hot mess...

8) Last. Evil Bill. Where do you side? I think Bill is definitely NOT what he appears and I do not find him trust worthy. (Besides, he tried to kill Eric and Pam. I hate him. With vigor.)

Now all my randomness leads to a few questions for next season.

• Who won between Bill and the Queen? Why did he try to kill Eric? 
• What will happen to Jason while watching a town full of shapeshifters?
• Is Hoyt's mom and Summer out to kill Jessica? 
• Did Sam just kill Tommy after Tommy's heartfelt confession?
• Where is Tara driving off to?
• Do we care that Sookie left? 
• Where is Debbie?

I leave you with the hilarious recap from Blood Work. These guys crack me up!!! I agree with them on all counts. 

Source photos: Santress

FF Friday-Cinematic Newsletter-Hidden Star-And A Twilight Love Letter of Sorts

*Whew* This has been one chaotic week. I am STILL working on my True Blood finale recap and the migraines are rolling in. I cannot get a break.

First, I want to send my condolences to a very special person - Snarkier Than You of Twitarded. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

~o~

So, I love to promote a good story when I stumble across one (obviously, I have a book blog). If you are a fan of University of Edward Masen, then you will love Bella Voce. I'm only 4 chapters deep, but the writing is superb. Set in the late eighteen hundreds Paris, France; Bella Voce has a little of everything that I seem to fascinate over. Historically beautiful setting, vampires, shapeshifters and Edward. (Oh, it's always about Edward!) Please do put this story on your favorite list.

~o~

I've been working on this for awhile but it has finally launched. Both my friend and I are passionate about films and luckily we had an opportunity to write our own dedicated newsletter for Inside Out Hawaii Magazine. It's called Screenshots and I ask that you please check it out. It is a weekly newsletter that you can subscribe to (enter your email address at the top right). I would most appreciate your thoughts and comments on this new venture. What do you think? Click here: Inside Out Screenshots

~o~

Guess what? It's time for the second round of voting for the Hidden Star Awards and Cinderella; A Tale of Lust is still up for Best Banner, Best All Around Story and Best Beta (Credit for Banner goes to Mrs. Vanquish, Beta is the wonderfully talented, Evenflo78) Please take a moment to vote.

~o~

Last, a little short video I threw together: A Twilight Love Letter of Sorts.

Have a wonderful weekend, and to those heading out to Forks... 12 more days.

Mondays Are Dog Days!

Mondays can be insane and today, seems to be one of those days. Basically I hardly slept last night, have tons of homework to do, have tons of real life work to do, and have a review piece (for a magazine) due by tomorrow noon. My ass is being handed to me today.

But, I look forward to talking True Blood Finale. Believe me, it was soooo worth it.

So, I leave you with my new obsession-Dog Days Are Over by Florence + The Machine. (You might remember this from the Eat, Pray, Love trailer.) I dare you to have a bad day listening to this song.

Happy Monday!

FF Friday-Edward In Pretty Woman-A Birthday-And a Crazy Book Review

First I wanted to say, thank you to J over at 

Robmusement for creating this banner. 

Beautiful. 

This is for my new fanfiction, Le Moulin Rouge. I hope that you will check it out. Summary: A young woman follows her undisclosed desires to become a dancer/actress and finds herself among the chaos of Le Moulin Rouge. Befriended by a painter, hated by a writer, Bella must forge her own path and find what it is that she seeks.

Also, Cinderella; A Tale of Lust is up for a Hidden Star Awards (and so is Osa Bella-I voted!), so please head over there and cast your votes. It means a great deal to us fanfic authors. Click here to vote.

Next up. Twi-observations. Lisa and Jen are good about doing these but normally I never notice things. Until! I watched Pretty Woman again over the weekend. I'm not sure if anyone has ever mentioned this before, but the story does seem to have eliminates found in some of our most beloved FF stories. 

Examples: 

• Character in Pretty Woman is Edward Lewis. (Hello, his name is Edward?)
• Edward is a rich and ruthless businessman and has daddy issues. (What's new.)
• Edward has trouble sleeping and often plays the piano at night to relax. (Oh, really?)
• Edward wants to spoil Vivian with gifts, but she wants more. (We all do sista.)
• Edward is incapable of giving Vivian anymore and she leaves. (Sighs...)
• Edward does turn out to be her knight in shining armor and returns to wisk Vivian away. (Woohoo!)

Is Richard Gere the original dickward? Either way, if you have a sleepy Sunday with nothing to do. Curl up with a good cup of tea, cookies and Pretty Woman. It will make you think of another sexy Edward. 

Pianos are hot! 

Next up, I wanted to say a very Happy Birthday to our beloved Twilight Cupcake-aka TC-aka Jen! If you aren't following her blog, you MUST! The shots of her travels and deserts are amazing, and Jen herself is a smart and witty blogger. She's also my roomie in my upcoming Forks trip! Big Up to J!!! 

 

Last, if you want to see a review done by my husband and my daughter (I warn you the excessive use of awesome is used) then head to my other blog-I Adore Books and Film. They thought they would do an impromptu interview without seeing the questions first. And the worst part, I let them! Btw, this is a youtube clip. 

Well, that's it for this weekend. If I have rambled, it is because I'm starving. I shall feed myself now. Have a great weekend and remember to take time to remember the tragic events that occurred on September 11th, 2001. 

Season Finale of TB this Sunday-What To Watch Next!

With the season finale of True Blood this Sunday, I thought it would be good idea to round up a few shows that might fill the void of what to watch now-this Fall.

First up: Vampire Diaries-Premiering its Second Season this Thursday, September 9 8/7c. Many of you have slowly stumbled onto this show, but if you are a fan of True Blood-let me tell you this is just as good, considering it's on the CW network. This show has hot vampires, witches, and possibly this next season-werewolves. A definite, must see for Fall. Did I mention that the writers are both fans of True Blood and Twilight? This makes for superb writing, where no character is safe, while developing the love story between Stefan and Elena; perfect balance.



Next up: How could I not mention the highly anticipated, Boardwalk Empire-Premiering on HBO September 19 at 9pm.

This original HBO series is directed by one of my all time favorite directors, Martin Scorsese and written by Sopranos writer-Terrence Winter. Set in Atlantic City during the 1920's prohibition, the series follows the life and times of Nucky Thompson-played by the brilliant, Steve Buscemi-and considered to be the undisputed head honcho of the Republican political machine that not only domineered over Atlantic City, but its county government. 

Did I tell you I love Scorsese? I also think he's nothing short of magnificent when it comes to depicting mafia. What's unique about this show, is that we are stepping back to the height of the roaring 20's-the rise of illegal activities and racketeering. In a time of ignorance, there is decadence-a recipe for nothing short of, complete and utter chaos. 

A few fun facts: 

Mark Wahlberg is also Executive Producer, along with Scorsese. 

Nucky Thompson actually existed-real name was Enoch Johnson.  

Rounding out my must see shows: Glee-Premiering its second season on September 21, 8/7c. 

If you are not a gleek, you have no idea what you are missing. With a strong ensemble, great musical mashes, and hilarious guest appearances, Glee has become somewhat addictive. Season 1 is available on DVD and Season 2 teases us with what we can only think will be, AWESOME. 

I reserve the right to recommend any further shows, till after I've seen their premieres-but this show is getting a lot of positive buzz: Nikita on the CW Network, premieres Thursday September 9 at 9/8c. 

What to look for in the future: HBO has ordered pilot episodes of the new creation, from True Blood-Alan Ball-titled, All Signs of Death. The show is based on the novel; The Mystic Arts of Erasing  All Signs of Death by Charlie Huston. 

What will you watch?

Stephenie Meyer Day? What Would You Ask Her?

Each year the city of Forks celebrates Bella's birthday by hosting an annual "Stephenie Meyer Day"-this year it is September 10th-12th 2010.

Hmmm. We twitardia, will descend down onto Forks September 30-October 3. Don't know what I'm talking about? Visit Twirtarded Goes To Forks for information (It's not too late to join us.)

Nevertheless, I wondered what would happen if we did show up during such a festive event AND Stephanie Meyer actually showed up for her own gaddamn day. Just saying... you would think...

In my drunkeness, what would I ask her? Let's think of a few questions, shall we?

1) What the fuck were you thinking when you created a 

half vampire/half human high-bred baby?

2) Why so much of Jacob's POV? 

I'll be the first to admit, I am not a fan of Book Jacob.

In fact, I skimmed a lot of his whiny ass.

3) Why did you seem to skim over the honeymoon,

(*wink wink-you know what I'm talking about)

and go straight to a difficult pregnancy? 

By doing so, you eliminated this...

Intimacy, that two people should indulge in

after marriage. 

4) Why are you punishing your fans by publishing frivolous novellas? 

Finish Midnight Sun. 

Edward is a beloved character, we implore.

And last but no least. 5) Will you forgive me for all the above? When it comes down to it, I can mock and make fun of her books-or certain plot points, all day long. But without her creativity, her desire to write... I would have never stumbled across this world she imagined and I would not have the following: 

The minute he walked into the cafeteria... 

I was under a spell. 

Then I purchased the books...

and fell down a rabbit hole.

Unable to find my way out...

I have essentially immersed myself in her world.

So in the end, I would simply wipe that smirk off my face, put my margarita down and give Ms. Meyer a hug and a kiss for giving me my mojo back in the form of 4 lovely books. 

It's Time! Vote for Beautiful Creatures: YALSA

Aloha!

Vote now for the 2010 Teens Top Ten, hosted by YALSA (Young Adult Library Services Association). Guess what? One of my favorite books of 2010 has been nominated: Beautiful Creatures, so please get out there and vote.

If you are like me and my daughter, fans of BC and also impatiently waiting for the next book in this series, Beautiful Darkness. Then show your appreciation by  voting for Beautiful Creatures today.

You can vote here: YALSA Vote

And if you would like to participate in the efforts to help promote Beautiful Creatures. Here's something a little extra brought to you by the Castergirls.com

CALLING ALL CASTERS & OUTCASTERS
JOIN TEAM CASTER!

Are you a fan of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES & BEAUTIFUL DARKNESS by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl?

If you are, join TEAM CASTER and help Caster Girls & Boys, the Official US Fansite for The Caster Chronicles, get the word out about this amazing series! As a member of TEAM CASTER, you will receive exclusive swag, news, contest opportunities & messages from Kami & Margie! We will send you updates with all the new info on the launch of BD, Kami & Margie’s events on the Smart Chicks BD tours, as well as advance details on upcoming or excusive contests!

To join, simply e-mail us and tell us you want become a member of TEAM CASTER & receive updates via e-mail. Our first promotional effort/contest is described below. If you plan to participate, include that info in your e-mail! Castergirls@gmail.com

To Enter: 

1) Add the Beautiful Creatures Teens' Top Ten Button from www.beautifulcreaturesthebook.com to your blog, site, FB page, or all three! The more places you add the button, the more points you earn.

2) Once you place the button on your blog, e-mail us at castergirls@gmail.com. When e-mailing please include your name, blog/website URL, twitter name, and your name. We will verify you have placed the button on your blog.

3) Tweet, Tweet, Tweet and encourage people to vote for Beautiful Creatures or add the button to their blogs. But don’t tweet the same thing multiple times a day. No one enjoys spam. Be creative! When tweeting, we ask that you simply add an @reply to @castergirls so that we see your tweet. The more tweets and @replies we see, the more points you’ll earn.

4) Post a message on your blog, site, Facebook page, or all three! If you post anywhere other than twitter, please e-mail us and let us know.

Prizes

Grand Prize (1 Winner)
· A signed copy of BEAUTIFUL CREATURES & BEAUTIFUL DARKNESS
· 2 different BC/BD posters signed
· 1 Set of four different BC/BD Buttons
· 1 Set of BD Bracelets & Tour Dog Tags


Second Prize (4 Winners)
· A Signed Copy of the new BC paperback
· 2 different BC/BD posters
· 1 Signed Bookplate
· 1 Set of four different BC/BD Buttons
· 1 Set of BD Bracelets & Tour Dog Tags
· 1 BC Key Chain

Contest runs from September 1st – 17th. Winners will be notified by September 18th.

True Blood S3 Fresh Blood

For a full synopsis, visit True Blood: HBO

Now, I've been harsh in the past and I will be the first to admit, that I am not a fan of some of the directions and plot lines of this season's True Blood. But, I feel like Alan Ball is saying to me, "if you don't fucking like it, then don't fucking watch it!"

Hoooold On! I do love True Blood! I do love the cast, the havoc, the gore. So this week, I will not rip a new asshole on the writers. I will try to discuss this week's episode, as it pertains to this season. Which I have to thank the writers for this last episode. At the very least, there was not a hour of complete havoc, in fact the episode was a little of a sleeper. But in this case, that's okay because I needed time to digest last week's episode.

Sooo.On to my thoughts.

I am a little confused as to how and why Bill thinks he can be so subordinate to Eric and his child, Pam. Yet, I see that Bill explains that he is older than Pam and can kick her ass if need be. Well, Pam can fight off Bill with silver-sparkle fluid but is easily taken down by a gold-digging whore? That makes no sense. Though the dialog between the gold-digging whore and Sookie was comical to me, to say the least. Sookie for being chained in filth (My god, who's been down there?), seemed remarkably calm and copacetic. Also, did Pam not notice the human walking towards the basement to free their captive?

Yet, all this leads to Eric's overall plan to lure Russell to Fangtasia, in the hopes that he will drink Sookie's blood and fry in the sun. We'll get to that in a moment.

Let's discuss the fluff-I wasn't quite sure what to make of Jason and his trip over to his Alma Mater. What was that all about? So freaking what. The kid uses, V. Aaaaand? What are you going to do about it? Or did this just burst his bubble that all is NOT good and pure in Bon Temps? So hey, fuck it. Marry a were panther. Mmmkay.... That to me, was a total waist of time.

Then more fluff-Tara confronting Andy was a big joke. First off, she was under a spell when she was with Maryanne. She did meet Eggs in the beginning, but as far as anything further, their relationship hadn't developed yet. So, if anything, she would be sad over the death of Eggs and the thought of getting to know him better-possibly having a future with him. But, once again, I'm disappointed in her bitterness. She's always such a bitch and it's hard to sympathize with her. How about being thankful that Andy took the blame (he had no idea, he would be percieved as a hero) and that he spared Jason a lifetime jail sentence for first degree murder. How about that Tara? Were you not in love with Jason at one time?

(Btw, I know my thoughts are random, please be patient with me.)

Now, with Jesus and Lafayette-I think it's interesting but it does border on fluff. I do hope there is a purpose to Lafayette's love interest and not just random V trips. So in this case, I will wait to see.

With Holly, I'm not hating on her too much. I mean, I'm intrigued with the wiccans and the witches and I do look forward to next season. So if you must make tea out in the wilderness, while calling upon a spirit. Then go on with your bad self. Have faith, that this plot line will get better. I do.

Oh, who am I kidding. Let's just focus on Russell.

Now.

If you were Russell, would you not rip Eric's arm out in order to avoid dying after 3,000 years?

Enough said. I think to be fair, we will need to see the season finale. Then we can take a look back on Season 3 and discuss whether or not we liked it. By far, I'm not happy with the lack of Eric and Sookie development. A few kisses here... mean jack shit. Something is lacking between these two characters and that is what I fear most with this series.

What would you like to see happen in the finale?

Best Quotes:
“You work for me. So, get back to work, bitches, and shut the fuck up!” Sam the man. Somebody give that boy some nookie. He's cranky. Tara?

“You know I love you more when you’re cold and heartless.” Eric. Dude, I know you love Pam, but what about Sookie?

"We have been schooled." Russell. He said something like that and I about fell over and laughed. Russell says some crazy shit. 

Let's hear from the writers, themselves. 

Ep. 35: Inside the Episode